Health information specialist

Duties and responsibilities; Medical coding specialists are responsible for correctly coding healthcare claims in order to obtain reimbursement from insurance companies and government healthcare programs, such as Medicare. Completion of a certificate or associate's degree program in medical coding or a related field is typically required. Qualified medical coders can earn the Certified Professional Coder credential through the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).

Salary;

Average Annual Salary (2013)

$37,710 all for medical records and health information technicians*

Education;

Certification Requirements for Medical Coding Specialists

Medical coding specialists can advance their career opportunities by obtaining certification through the AAPC. Requirements for the CPC credential include current AAPC membership, two years of experience as a medical coder and successful passage of an exam. An associate's degree in medical coding or a related field is recommended but is not required for certification. CPCs must maintain annual membership in the AAPC and submit 36 continuing education units every two years for recertification. In addition to the CPC designation, which is intended for medical coders who work in physicians' offices, the AAPC offers certification in CPC-Hospital, CPC-Payer, Certified Interventional Radiology Cardiovascular Coder and Certified Professional Medical Auditor. The association also offers 19 stand-alone credentials in areas such as anesthesia and pain management, dermatology and urology.

 

Reflection; I would not like to be a health information specialist because I don’t.